26: Teaching on God’s Kingdom (3) (Lk 18:35-19:27)

I.       The Basics

A.     Setting

This lesson concludes the central section of the Gospel (9:51-19:27). The events took place as Jesus went through the city of Jericho on His way to Jerusalem. In this final phase before Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, many of the major themes in Luke will appear again, including the Lord’s concern for the needy and sinners, the importance of faith, God’s glory, the issue of material wealth,  stewardship, and the kingdom of God.

B.     Key Verse

            “For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost” (19:10).

C.     Did You Know…?

1.      Sycamore tree (19:4): A sturdy tree from 30 to 40 feet high, with a short trunk and spreading branches, capable of holding a grown man.

2.      Ten minas (19:13): About two to three years’ wages.

II.    Observation

A.     Outline

(18:35-43)

(19:1-10)

(19:11-27)

B.     Key Words/Phrases

III. Segment Analysis

A.     18:35-43

1.Why did those who went before warn the blind man to be quiet? What does this say about them?

2. What is remarkable about the way the blind man addressed the Lord Jesus?

3. The blind man was commended for his faith (42). In what ways did he demonstrate his faith?

4. What can we learn from these words, “What do you want Me to do for you?” (41).

5a. What did the blind man do after receiving his sight?

5b. What lesson can we learn from him?

B.     19:1-10

6a. Why do you think Zacchaeus wanted to see the Lord?

6b. What can we learn from the way he sought to see Jesus?

7. Pay close attention to Zacchaeus’ actions throughout the incident. What do they teach us about our relationship with the Lord?

8. Why did the people complain?

9a. How did Zacchaeus demonstrate the meaning of repentance?

9b. How was he different from the rich ruler in 18:18-23?

10. Verse 10 contains the key verse of this Gospel: “The Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost” (19:10). In the story, how did Jesus seek Zacchaeus?

11. How did the Lord Jesus seek and save you when you were lost?

C.     19:11-27

12. Who do these characters represent?

12a. The nobleman

12b. The servants

12c. The citizens

13. “A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and to return” (12). What could this represent?

14a. What are the minas the Lord has entrusted to us? What does He want us to do with them?

14b. How are you investing your minas?

15. What excuse did the wicked servant give for failing to earn anything? Why was the excuse invalid?

16. Explain the meaning of verse 26.

17. Why did Jesus speak this parable? How did the parable serve that purpose?